Where is Garnet in Basalt found?
Garnet (mineral) in Basalt (igneous rock)
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Open the appGarnet in Basalt occurs in specific geological environments. Knowing where to look, and in what kind of rock, is the difference between going home empty-handed and finding a great specimen.
Where to find Garnet in Basalt
Kimberley region, South Africa
While primarily known for diamonds in kimberlite, some basaltic rocks in the region can contain mantle-derived garnets.
Colorado Plateau, USA
Various volcanic fields, particularly those with alkali basalts, contain mantle xenoliths and xenocrysts, including garnets.
Eastern Australia (e.g., New South Wales, Queensland)
Cenozoic basaltic provinces are known for mantle xenoliths and xenocrysts, including pyrope garnets.
Siberian Platform, Russia
Associated with large igneous provinces and kimberlite fields, some basaltic occurrences may contain deep-seated garnets.
Hawaii, USA
While less common than olivine, some deep-seated xenoliths and xenocrysts, including garnet, can be found in Hawaiian basalts, particularly those from deeper mantle sources.
Collecting tips
- Look for Volcanic Fields. Focus on areas with recent or ancient basaltic volcanism, especially those known for mantle xenoliths.
- Examine Outcrops Closely. Garnets can be small and easily overlooked. Look for distinct reddish or purplish grains contrasting with the dark basalt matrix.
- Check Weathered Surfaces. Weathering can sometimes make the garnets more prominent as they may resist erosion differently than the surrounding basalt.
- Consult Geological Maps and Literature. Research specific localities known for mantle xenocrysts or xenoliths in basaltic rocks.
Quick Check
- Color:
- Dark gray to black matrix with reddish-brown to dark red inclusions.
- Luster:
- Dull to sub-vitreous for basalt, vitreous to resinous for garnet.
- Streak:
- White to grayish-white for basalt (if powdered), colorless for garnet.
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